Vilince

I always admired the powerful heroes that protect the innocents against the crazy strong monsters that terrorize our world. One day, I will gain a high level ability and become one of those heroes I admire. Is what I expected, but what can I do with my level one ability?! No matter, with hard work and perseverance, I will surpass this crappy level system and become a hero!

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Many thanks to a friend who made my cover! See more of her works at @soupersquid on Instagram!

Level One Isn't Weak!

Leo still had a glimpse of hope against the two.

("There's only one thing I can do now.") [Leo]

Resolving himself, Leo turned on his heel and ran.

They gave chase as Leo sprinted for all that he was worth.

"Maybe if you asked nicely!" [Leo]

Leo ran through random squads in the midst of their fights. It was confusing for them as he passed through, but they continued on like it was nothing.

"My god! This guy can run!" [Veiled Soldier]

Leo started to widen the gap between them, so he waited.

"Haa… Have you finally given up?" [Lightning Soldier]

Somewhat out of breath, the two soldiers cornered him.

He then slapped one of them before making his escape.

"Wha-?! The fuck?!" [Veiled Soldier]

Filled with a mixture of confusion and anger, they ran after him again.

He repeated the same actions as before. Running through groups and creating distance before stopping.

The two soldiers replied with heavy breathing. All they could do was glare at him.

"Boy, do you guys look PISSED." [Leo]

"Don't worry though. I'm done running." [Leo]

Surprisingly, Leo didn't seem to be out of breath. Perhaps keeping up with his training schedule over the week attributed to his stamina?

"I swear, if you start running AGAIN. I'm going to be more than just pissed." [Lightning Soldier]

The two soldiers took a step forward with frustration in their step.

"I'm gonna wipe that smirk off your face." [Veiled Soldier]

As the soldier began to move forward, he froze.

Something pulled at his feet, leaving him unable to move.

"What's going on?" [Veiled Soldier]

"Wait, I can't move either!" [Lightning Soldier]

"Thank god tt finally started to work." [Leo]

The two struggled to pull away at the invisible force.

"Is this gravity manipulation?!" [Lightning Soldier]

"Then how do you explain this?!" [Veiled Soldier]

Leo saw it as silly or idiotic for his opponents to reveal their abilities. Therefore, he refused to divulge his own.

("Maybe it's telekinesis?") [Veiled Soldier]

("What are the requirements for his ability?!") [Lightning Soldier]

The two tried their best to piece clues together, but neither would come close to the truth.

"Oh, by the way… It should be kicking in about now." [Leo]

The two suddenly felt the pull grow stronger as it crept up their legs.

It was a terrifying unknown. None could guess that Leo held the ability known as level 7 Aggro Stacking. An ability that applies and increases randomized afflictions or discomforts to opponents targeting them. It also had the ability to increase the user's strength in proportion to the amount of foes. Such an ability gets especially powerful the longer the interaction becomes.

He wanted to go find either Howard or Bryan, but leaving now meant his ability would get dispelled.

("My radio is fried and I'm practically stuck here.") [Leo]

Though Leo also considered moving the two soldiers for capture, it was not possible since they were practically frozen on the spot.

"All I have to do is stall you." [Squad Two Member]

"Your friends will be dealt with soon. That's all you need to know." [Squad Two Member]

Bryan quickly realized the meaning behind those words.

Time Is Of The Essence